The Ranji Trophy 2025-26 has a new underdog hero: Jammu & Kashmir, storming into their first-ever final against Karnataka in Hubli on the back of Aaqib Nabi’s express pace. This right-armer’s journey from strife-torn fields to national spotlight has former skipper Sourav Ganguly championing his cause.
Ganguly’s X post cut through the noise: ‘Jammu & Kashmir demonstrated willpower’s power globally. Region beams with pride. Hardships shape warriors. Aaqib Nabi belongs in blue—launch with England summer series.’ The tag to BCCI and Ajit Agarkar amplified the message ahead of July’s T20I-ODI tour, key for 2027 World Cup buildup.
Nabi’s dominance is undeniable. Final first innings: 5/54 to restrict Karnataka to 293 after J&K’s 584. Earlier, he starred in quarters (8 wickets vs MP) and semis (9 vs Bengal, plus 42 runs), earning back-to-back Player of the Match honors.
J&K’s batting firepower shone: toss win led to Shubham Pundir’s 121, Yawar Hasan Khan 88, Sahil Lotra 72, dual 70s from captain Paras Dogra and Kanhaiya Wadhavan, Abdul Samad 61. Even Mayank Agarwal’s 160 couldn’t save Karnataka from a 291-run deficit.
A draw favors J&K via first-innings lead, potentially crowning their historic triumph. Ganguly’s nudge reflects cricket’s meritocracy, where raw talent from overlooked regions like J&K can challenge the elite and redefine team selections.